LASER THERAPY USED IN CONTEMPORARY DENTISTRY AS A TREATMENT MECHANISM FOR PARESTHESIA AND OTHER ORAL APPLICATIONS

Abstract

This article aimed to address paresthesia, a temporary or permanent alteration in sensation within an innervated region, characterized by tingling, numbness, or burning sensations in areas such as the lips, mouth, and cheek, often associated with damage to peripheral nerves (trigeminal, glossopharyngeal, and facial nerves). The most common causes of paresthesia in dentistry are related to procedures such as lower third molar extractions, local anesthesia, premature implants, surgical interventions in the mandible, and mechanical trauma. With the advancement of dentistry, laser therapy has gained significant traction as a complementary treatment, particularly in cases of paresthesia. Laser therapy involves the use of electromagnetic radiation in the visible or infrared light spectrum, generated by laser devices with varying wavelengths. This interaction with biological tissues produces therapeutic effects, including analgesia, anti-inflammatory action, and wound healing. The objective of this study was to conduct a literature review and discuss the mechanisms and applicability of laser therapy in dental practice. It was concluded that laser therapy is a prominent and promising approach in contemporary dentistry.